Imagine the sun paints the Sydney Opera House with molten gold while the Harbour Bridge casts long shadows like a friendly titan.
You’re smoothly sailing on the shiny water, feeling the calm waves, seeing these famous places as huge, lively beings dancing in the sunlight instead of just staying still.
This is the magic of seeing the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney on a ferry or cruise.
While it’s important to note that the Sydney Opera House itself doesn’t offer maritime tours, for an undeniable experience, you need to book the Sydney Harbour Cruise.
So, leave the usual behind, and don’t settle for hazy phone pics; your cruise ticket is your VIP pass to stunning visuals.
Move along the blue water lock and witness the magical Opera House change from a cool building to a dreamy view that sparkles in the sun.
Then, look up to the grand Harbour Bridge. It’s more than just a huge steel structure; it’s a vibrant part of the city’s heartbeat.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. Leaning on the ship’s railing, you blend into the scenery.
Cruise by ancient coves where convicts arrived, glide past lavish waterfront mansions echoing stories of colonial grandeur and sail under the Bridge’s arch.
Every turn unveils a fresh scene, a mix of sights and sounds creating a lively picture of this bustling city.
As you sip your drink, rocked by the boat’s gentle motion, your heart overflows with the sheer beauty of it all.
And don’t forget the sunsets! the sky painted in fiery colors, the Opera House glowing in golden light, and the Bridge draped in orange, pink, and purple shades.
Sydney Harbour Cruise Prices
Sydney Harbour Cruise offers a variety of experiences, from a flexible Hop-on, Hop-off cruise to a luxurious Harbor Cruise with a 2-course Premium Lunch.
Depending on the experience you choose, the price can range from A$38 ($25) to A$152 ($102).
Do Cruise Boats Pass the Sydney Opera House?
Several boat tours and cruises offer views of the Sydney Opera House from the water.
For instance, the Sydney Harbour Cruise Taronga Zoo tour and the Morning or Afternoon Harbour Sightseeing Cruise provide opportunities to see the Opera House from different perspectives.
Additionally, public ferries run between the White Bay Cruise Terminal and the Sydney Opera House, offering another way to see the iconic building from the water.
These cruises and ferry rides offer a unique perspective of the Sydney Opera House and are popular with tourists and locals alike.d
In fact, cruising past the Opera House is often considered a highlight of any Sydney Harbour cruise.
Type of Sydney Harbour Cruises
With its iconic landmarks and stunning waterways, Sydney Harbor is a spectacular sight to behold. One of the best ways to experience its beauty is through a cruise.
From all-inclusive premium lunch cruises to evening cruises with a three-course dinner, you can choose from several types of Sydney Harbour cruises.
Some cruises offer a la carte meals, while others provide an opportunity to sail on a tall ship.
Hop-on, Hop-off Sydney Harbour Cruise
The Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off Cruise offers a flexible 1 or 2-day journey to explore iconic attractions, hidden beaches, and pristine bushlands.
With onboard commentary and complimentary self-service tea and coffee, you can enjoy the contrasting beauty of the harbour and the cityscape at your own pace.
It’s a unique way to discover Sydney from a spacious ferry, hopping on and off at your chosen locations.
Hop-on, Hop-off Sydney Harbour Cruise Price
1 day Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off Cruise
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$38 ($25)
- Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$24 ($16)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 3 years): A$24
2 day Sydney Harbour Hop-on Hop-off Cruise
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$38 ($25)
- Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$24 ($16)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 3 years): Free Ride
Sydney Harbour Cruise and Taronga Zoo
Travel to Taronga Zoo with a return ticket on the rocket ferry from Circular Quay, and explore exhibits at your own pace.
Enjoy interactive shows and talks by zookeepers, and see various animals from Australia and worldwide.
After a day of exploration, relax on the cruise back to Circular Quay, taking in the stunning Sydney views.
Harbour Cruise and Taronga Zoo Cost
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$70 ($47)
- Child ticket (3 to 15 years): A$40 ($27)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 2 years): Free Ride
Sydney Tall Ship Afternoon Cruise
Experience a 1.5-hour Sydney Harbour cruise on an 1850s-style tall ship, where you can steer, help with the sails or relax and enjoy the crew’s entertainment.
Learn about Sydney’s history, capture stunning views, and feel like a sailor from yesteryear.
Children under 3 go free but must be supervised by a parent or guardian.
Sydney Tall Ship Afternoon Cruise Price
- Adult ticket (15 to 99 years): A$69 ($46)
- Child ticket (4 to 14 years): A$39 ($26)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 3 years): Free Ride
Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Head out for a sightseeing cruise from Eastern Pontoon at Circular Quay in the morning or afternoon.
You’ll pass by famous spots like the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanical Gardens.
There will be live commentary, and you can enjoy some snacks and drinks.
You can select your preferred time slot from 10:15 am, 2:30 pm, 4:15 pm and 6 pm.
Sydney Sightseeing Cruise Price
- Adult ticket (15 to 99 years): A$45 ($30)
- Child ticket (5 to 14 years): A$29 ($19)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 4 years): Free Ride
Sydney Harbor Cruise with 2-Course Premium Lunch
Hop on a luxury cruise in Sydney Harbor, savor a delicious lunch with top-notch wines, and soak in the city’s skyline.
Sail past Taronga Zoo and Luna Park, wrapping up a 2.5-hour premium dining experience with iconic views.
Adult ticket (Up to 99 years): A$152 ($102)
Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Ride Adventure
Get ready for a thrilling 30-minute jet boat ride on Sydney Harbour with slides, spins, and wave riding.
Starting at Circular Quay, you’ll be equipped with waterproof gear and life jackets before you set off to enjoy the sights, including the Sydney Opera House and Taronga Zoo.
Rides are available from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Jet Boat Ride Adventure Price
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$89 ($60)
- Child ticket (Up to 15 years): A$59 ($40)
Sydney Harbour Cocktail Cruise
Enjoy a 1.5 or 2-hour cruise around Sydney Harbour, with stunning views and a choice of dining options.
As you relax, take in the stunning city and sea views with a drink in hand.
Explore the ship, listen to live music, and savor your chosen meal.
Choose from two dining options: Beer and wine with a Tasting Plate or Cocktail and cheese Platter.
Don’t forget to connect to the onboard Wi-Fi to share your real-time experience!
Beer & Wine with Tasting Plate Price
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$65 ($44)
- Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$45 ($30)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 3 years): Free Ride
Cocktail & Cheese Platter Price
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$75 ($50)
- Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$75 ($50)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 3 years): Free Ride
Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise
Sail aboard the MV Sydney 2000 for a divine dining escapade along Sydney Harbour.
Pick from sunset delights with a 3-course menu, a starlit 4-course feast, or a lavish 6-course Penfold’s wine affair.
Feel the weekend vibes with live music amidst Sydney’s captivating night vistas.
3-Course Early Dinner Cruise Price
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$109 ($73)
- Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$45 ($30)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 3 years): Free Ride
4-Course Dinner Price
- Adult ticket (16 to 99 years): A$139 ($93)
- Child ticket (4 to 15 years): A$55 ($37)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 3 years): Free Ride
6-Course Tasting Menu with Wine and Live Music Price
Adult ticket (Up to 99 years): A$269 ($180)
Sydeny Harbor Cruise with Buffet Lunch
Set sail from Circular Quay for a Sydney Harbour cruise featuring a diverse 13-option
buffet lunch and drinks with live commentary.
Sail past famous landmarks like the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, capturing stunning views of the Botanical Gardens and Darling Harbor during this 135-minute tour.
- Adult ticket (15 to 99 years): A$69 ($46)
- Child ticket (5 to 14 years): A$49 ($33)
- Infant ticket ( Up to 4 years): Free Ride
Is Booking a Sydney Harbour Cruise Worth It?
Cruises offer more than just picture-perfect moments.
They’re social adventures, opportunities to connect with fellow travelers, share stories, and laugh the salty sea air away.
Imagine a lively deck, the clinking of glasses filled with local wine, and conversations weaving with the sound of the waves.
It’s an experience that lingers long after the anchor drops, a memory etched in the warmth of human connection.
